Operating Tips
Energy efficient appliances save energy and time. Look for these convenient features when selecting a new energy efficient appliance:
Front-loading clothes washers
- Increased capacity — three or four loads can be washed in one load.
- Automatic adjustment of the water level to the size of the load being washed.
- More thorough spin-drying than a top-loading machine. This can reduce dryer time significantly.
Dryers
- Moisture sensors that detect when laundry is dry and automatically shut off the machine.
- Less dryer time means that there is less wear and tear on your clothing and linens.
Dishwasher
- Shorter cycle options will use less energy, less water and less time.
- Use a “Light Wash” or “No Heat Dry/Air Dry” settings whenever possible.
Energy saving tips for appliances
- Wash your laundry in a cold or warm water wash cycle and a cold rinse cycle as your laundry needs dictate. Most laundry can be effectively washed in cold water. Try a laundry detergent that is specially formulated for cold water washing.
- Run only full loads and select the “No Heat Dry/Air Dry” option to save energy when using your dishwasher.
- Use the smallest appliance possible when cooking. Where appropriate, a toaster oven or microwave will use less energy than an oven.
- Get rid of that old fridge in your basement or garage. This will reduce your electricity bill.
- Make sure that the gasket seal on your refrigerator door is airtight. To check, place a piece of paper between the door and the fridge. If the paper does not stay in place when the door is closed the gasket may need to be adjusted or replaced.
- Vacuum the cooling coils on the back or behind the front grille of your refrigerator regularly for peak efficiency and to extend the life of the compressor.